- India seeks US designation of SFJ as a terrorist group, despite lack of concrete evidence.
- The request follows a failed plot to assassinate SFJ leader Pannun in the US.
- SFJ has been advocating for the Khalistan movement peacefully, despite accusations of extremism.
- India’s claim of SFJ as a threat raises questions about freedom of expression and political movements.
- US Embassy remains silent on India’s request, leaving the international community in doubt.
India has asked the United States to officially label the Sikh separatist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) as a terrorist organization. This request comes as tensions rise over SFJ’s push for a separate Sikh state, Khalistan, and a thwarted assassination plot allegedly linked to Indian intelligence.
The request was made during closed-door talks between Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US National Intelligence Chief Tulsi Gabbard. While the discussions focused on strengthening security ties, India’s demand to designate SFJ as a terrorist group remains a major point of disagreement.
The SFJ’s Peaceful Advocacy for Khalistan
India views the Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) as a violent and secessionist group. However, SFJ has always promoted Khalistan through peaceful means. The group organizes global referendums, urging Sikhs worldwide to support an independent Sikh state in Punjab, India.
SFJ leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a dual US-Canada citizen, rejects accusations of extremism. He believes the group’s efforts are peaceful and democratic. In a statement shared with Reuters, Pannun condemned India’s portrayal of SFJ as a terrorist group, asking, “Who is the terrorist?”
India seeks to label SFJ a terrorist group due to its support for secessionism and calls for Khalistan. The Indian government declared SFJ an “unlawful association” in 2019. In 2020, Pannun himself was designated as an “individual terrorist” by New Delhi.
Human rights groups and political analysts have criticized India’s actions. They argue the move undermines the rights of those advocating for peaceful political change. Critics also worry that India’s push for US involvement in labeling SFJ as a terrorist group could reflect its influence on global politics.
The Failed Assassination Plot
The US stopped a plot to assassinate Pannun in November 2023, allegedly linked to Indian intelligence. The US revealed the plot, and a former Indian spy officer was charged. India denied involvement but set up a panel to investigate the claims.
In January 2024, the panel recommended legal action against an unnamed individual. These events have worsened India’s diplomatic relations. The plot raised suspicions about India’s actions and highlighted rising tensions between the Indian government and the Sikh diaspora, especially in the US and Canada.
Tensions Rise Between India and Canada
India’s relations with Canada have become more strained, especially after the June 2023 killing of a Sikh separatist in Canada. The ongoing dispute over Sikh separatist issues has sparked accusations of international interference.
India’s push to label SFJ as a terrorist group is seen as part of its global efforts to suppress the Sikh independence movement. In Canada, where many Sikhs live, this has raised concerns about India’s respect for self-determination and political freedom.
India Pushes for SFJ’s Terrorist Label
India has been pushing aggressively for the SFJ to be designated as a terrorist group. However, the US Embassy has stayed largely silent on the matter. In fact, a spokesperson declined to comment, only mentioning the discussions between Singh and Gabbard.
At a geopolitics conference in New Delhi, Gabbard acknowledged India’s security concerns. Yet, she didn’t provide any specific details about the discussions. As a result, her vague response only added to the confusion surrounding the US’s position on the issue.
India’s request to label SFJ as a terrorist group has sparked significant international criticism. Many argue that this move is politically motivated and threatens freedom of expression. Moreover, as the US remains silent, India risks damaging its global reputation and alienating those who support peaceful political advocacy.